Footwear including a tilt adjuster

Abstract

A sole structure can include a chamber and a delivery passage containing electrorheological fluid. Electrodes can be positioned to generate an electric field in at least a portion of the electrorheological fluid in the delivery passage in response to a voltage between the electrodes. The sole structure can also include a controller including a processor and a memory. At least one of the processor and the memory can store instructions executable by the processor for operations including maintaining the voltage between the electrodes at one or more flow-inhibiting levels at which flow of the electrorheological fluid through the delivery passage is blocked, and further including maintaining the voltage between the electrodes at one or more flow- enabling levels that allow the electrorheological fluid to flow through the delivery passage.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on August 30, 2018, with application number 201880069161.2 and invention title "Footwear including tilt adjuster".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 552,548, filed August 31, 2017, entitled "Footwear Incorporating an Incline Adjuster". The entire contents of Application No. 62 / 552,548 are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0004] Conventional footwear typically consists of an upper and a sole structure. The upper provides coverage for the foot and securely positions it relative to the sole structure. The sole structure is attached to the lower portion of the upper and is configured to position the foot between the foot and the ground when the wearer is standing, walking, or running.

[0005] Conventional footwear is typically designed to be optimized for a specific state or set of states. For example, sports such as tennis and basketball require a lot of lateral movement. Shoes designed for this type of sport usually include significant reinforcement and / or support in areas that bear greater force during lateral movements. As another example, running shoes are typically designed for the wearer to move forward in a straight line. Difficulties arise when shoes must be worn during changes in state or across multiple different types of sports. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This "Summary" introduces, in a simplified form, a series of concepts further described below in the "Detailed Description." This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the invention.

[0007] In at least some embodiments, the tilt adjuster may include a variable-volume outer chamber and a variable-volume inner chamber. The tilt adjuster may also include a delivery channel extending between the outer and inner chambers, an electrorheological fluid filling the outer chamber, the delivery channel, and the inner chamber, and a counter electrode exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the delivery channel. The electrode may be formed of, for example, a metal sheet or conductive rubber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the tilt adjuster may include a variable-volume first chamber and a variable-volume second chamber. The tilt adjuster may also include a transfer device extending between the first and second chambers, an electrorheological fluid filling the first chamber, the transfer channel, and the second chamber, and a counter electrode exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transfer channel. The first chamber may include a flexible first chamber wall, further including a central section of the first chamber wall and a side section of the first chamber wall surrounding the central section. The side section of the first chamber wall may include at least one fold defining a corrugated shape of the first chamber.

[0009] In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a tilt adjuster may include molding a first component in which first portions of an inner chamber and an outer chamber, and a first portion of a delivery channel are defined, wherein a portion of a first electrode is exposed along the first portion of the delivery channel. The method may further include molding a second component in which second portions of an inner chamber and an outer chamber, and a second portion of the delivery channel are defined, wherein a portion of a second electrode is exposed along the second portion of the delivery channel. The method may further include incorporating the first component into the second component to form a tilt adjuster, wherein first and second portions of the inner chamber are combined to form an inner chamber, first and second portions of the outer chamber are combined to form an outer chamber, and first and second portions of the delivery channel are combined to form a delivery channel connecting the inner and outer chambers.

[0010] Additional embodiments are described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Some embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not as a limitation in the accompanying drawings, and the same reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0012] Figure 1 This is an inside view of a shoe according to some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the shoe's sole structure.

[0014] Figure 2B It has the forefoot outsole components removed. Figure 1 A bottom view of the shoe's sole structure.

[0015] Figure 2C yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the forefoot outsole element of the shoe's sole structure.

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partially disassembled inner perspective view of the shoe's sole structure.

[0017] Figure 4Ayes Figure 1 Enlarged rear-outer top perspective view of the shoe's tilt adjuster.

[0018] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A top view of the tilt adjuster.

[0019] Figure 4C It is along Figure 4B The cross-sectional view shown is a plane cut from the plane.

[0020] Figure 5A Show Figure 4A The first layer of the first component of the tilt adjuster and the first metal electrode.

[0021] Figure 5B Shown in Figure 5A After the first electrode is attached Figure 5A The first layer.

[0022] Figure 5C The image shows the process after molding the second layer onto the first layer and the attached first electrode. Figure 4A The first component of the tilt adjuster.

[0023] Figure 6A It shows Figure 4A The first layer of the second component of the tilt adjuster and the second metal electrode.

[0024] Figure 6B Shown in attachment Figure 6A After the second electrode Figure 6A The first layer.

[0025] Figure 6C The second layer is shown after molding on the first layer and the attached second electrode. Figure 4A The second component of the tilt adjuster.

[0026] Figure 7A and Figure 7B It shows the result of Figure 5C The first component and Figure 6C The second component assembly Figure 4A The tilt adjuster.

[0027] Figure 7C An enlarged rear-outer top perspective view of the tilt adjuster after assembly and before filling with ER fluid is shown.

[0028] Figure 8 yes Figure 4A An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the conveyor channel of the tilt adjuster.

[0029] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 1A block diagram of the electrical system components in the shoe.

[0030] Figures 10A to 10D This is a partial schematic cross-sectional view, showing... Figure 1 The tilt adjuster of the shoe shown operates from the minimum tilt state to the maximum tilt state.

[0031] Figure 10E yes Figure 1 A top view of the shoe's tilt adjuster and sole, showing the corresponding... Figures 10A-10D The approximate location of the section lines in the view.

[0032] Figure 11A It is a graph showing the foot state, pressure difference, voltage level, and tilt angle at different times during the transition from the minimum tilt state to the maximum tilt state.

[0033] Figure 11B It is a graph showing the foot condition, pressure difference, voltage level, and tilt angle at different times during the transition from the maximum tilt state to the minimum tilt state.

[0034] Figure 12A This is a rear outer top perspective view of the tilt adjuster according to an additional embodiment.

[0035] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A Top perspective view of the rear inner side of the tilt adjuster.

[0036] Figure 12C yes Figure 12A A top view of the tilt adjuster.

[0037] Figure 13 It is along Figure 12C The image shown is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken from a plane.

[0038] Figure 14 The assembly is shown using the first and second components formed separately. Figures 12A-12C The tilt adjuster. Detailed Implementation

[0039] In various types of activities, altering the shape of a shoe or part of the shoe can be advantageous when the wearer is running or otherwise participating in the activity. In many running races, for example, athletes run on tracks with curved sections (also known as "curves"). In some cases, particularly in sprint events such as the 200-meter or 400-meter races, athletes may sprint at top speed on track curves. However, running fast on flat curves is biomechanically inefficient and can make body movements clumsy. To counteract this effect, some track curves are angled. This angle makes body movements more efficient and often results in shorter running times. Experiments have shown that similar advantages can be obtained by altering the shape of the shoe. Specifically, running on a flat track curve wearing shoes with insoles that are angled relative to the ground can provide the same benefits as running on an angled curve wearing shoes with non-angled insoles. However, angled insoles are disadvantageous on the straight sections of the track. Footwear that provides a sloping insole when running on curves and reduces or eliminates that sloping insole when running on straight sections of track offers significant advantages.

[0040] In footwear according to some embodiments, electrorheological (ER) fluids are used to alter the shape of one or more shoe parts. ER fluids typically comprise non-conductive oils or other fluids with very small particles suspended in them. In some types of ER fluids, the particles may have a diameter of 5 micrometers or less and may be formed from polystyrene or another polymer having dipolar molecules. When an electric field is applied to an ER fluid, the viscosity of the fluid increases with increasing electric field strength. As described in more detail below, this effect can be used to control fluid transfer and alter the shape of footwear components. While embodiments of spiked shoes have been initially described, other embodiments include footwear for other sports or activities.

[0041] The terms "shoe" and "footwear" are used interchangeably herein and refer to articles intended for wearing on the human foot. A shoe may or may not cover the entire foot of the wearer. For example, a shoe may comprise a sandal-like upper that exposes most of the wearing foot. Shoe elements may be described based on the regions and / or anatomy of the human foot wearing the shoe and by assuming that the interior of the shoe generally conforms to and otherwise adapts to the size of the wearing foot. The forefoot region of the foot includes the metatarsals and the heads and bodies of the phalanges. The forefoot element of a shoe is an element having one or more portions located below, above, on the lateral and / or medial sides of the wearer's forefoot (or a portion thereof) when the shoe is worn. The midfoot region of the foot includes the cuboid, navicular, and cuneiform bones, and the bases of the metatarsals. The midfoot element of a shoe is an element having one or more portions located below, above, and / or on the lateral and / or medial sides of the wearer's midfoot (or a portion thereof) when the shoe is worn. The heel region of the foot includes the talus and calcaneus. A shoe heel element is an element that, when worn, has one or more portions located below, above, on the side, and / or behind the wearer's heel (or a portion thereof) on the outer and / or inner sides of the heel. The forefoot area may overlap with the midfoot area, and the midfoot area may also overlap with the heel area.

[0042] Figure 1 This is an inner view of a spiked shoe 10 according to some embodiments. The outer side of the shoe 10 has a similar configuration and appearance, but is configured to correspond to the outer side of the wearer's foot. The shoe 10 is configured for wearing on the right foot and is part of a pair of shoes including a shoe (not shown) that is a mirror image of the shoe 10 and configured for wearing on the left foot. However, as described in more detail below, the shoe 10 and its corresponding left shoe can be configured to change their shape in different ways in a given set of states.

[0043] The shoe 10 includes an upper 11 attached to the sole structure 12. The upper 11 can be formed of any variety of types or materials and has any variety of different constructions. In some embodiments, for example, the upper 11 may be knitted as a single unit and may not include other types of linings. In some embodiments, the upper 11 can be slid-stitched at the bottom edge of the upper 11 to enclose the internal space accommodating the foot. In other embodiments, the upper 11 can be slid-stitched using a strobel heel counter or other methods. A battery assembly 13 is located in the heel area of ​​the upper 11 and includes a battery that supplies power to a controller. The controller is located in... Figure 1 It is not visible in the image, but is described below in conjunction with other accompanying figures.

[0044] The sole structure 12 includes an insole 14, an outsole 15, and a tilt adjuster 16. The tilt adjuster 16 is located between the outsole 15 and the insole 14 in the forefoot region. As explained in more detail below, the tilt adjuster 16 includes a medial fluid chamber supporting the medial forefoot portion of the insole 14 and a lateral fluid chamber supporting the lateral forefoot portion of the insole 14. ER fluid can be transferred between these chambers via a connecting transfer channel in fluid communication with the interior of the two chambers. This fluid transfer raises the height of one chamber relative to the other, causing a portion of the insole 14 located above the chamber to tilt. When further flow of ER fluid through the channel is interrupted, the tilt remains until ER fluid flow is allowed to resume.

[0045] The outsole 15 forms the ground contact portion of the sole structure 12. In an embodiment of the shoe 10, the outsole 15 includes a forefoot outsole section 17 and a rearfoot outsole section 18. (By comparison...) Figure 2A (Top view of sole structure 12) and Figure 2B (A bottom view of the sole structure 12 with the forefoot outsole section 17 removed) shows the relationship between the forefoot outsole section 17 and the rearfoot outsole section 18. Figure 2C This is a bottom view of the forefoot outsole section 17 removed from the sole structure 12. (See image below.) Figure 2A As seen, the forefoot outsole section 17 extends through the forefoot and midfoot areas of the sole structure 12, and gradually tapers to a narrowing end 19. End 19 is attached to the rearfoot outsole section 18 at a joint 20 located in the heel area. The rearfoot outsole section 18 extends over the lateral midfoot area and the heel area, and is attached to the insole 14. The forefoot outsole section 17 is also attached to the insole 14 via a pivot element and the aforementioned fluid chamber of the tilt adjuster 16. The forefoot outsole portion 17 pivots about a longitudinal axis L1 passing through the joint 20 and the forefoot pivot element. Specifically, as described below, when the forefoot portion of the insole 14 is tilted relative to the forefoot outsole portion 17, the forefoot outsole portion 17 rotates about axis L1.

[0046] The outsole 15 may be formed of a polymer or polymer composite and may include rubber and / or other abrasion-resistant materials on the ground contact surface. The traction element 21 may be molded into or otherwise formed in the bottom of the outsole 15. The forefoot outsole portion 17 may also include insertion holes for retaining one or more removable stud elements 22. In other embodiments, the outsole 15 may have different configurations.

[0047] The insole 14 includes a midsole 25. In an embodiment of the shoe 10, the midsole 25 has a size and shape that generally corresponds to the contour of a human foot, is a single piece extending over the entire length and width of the insole 14, and includes a wavy top surface 26 (e.g., Figure 3(As shown). The contour of the top surface 26 is configured to generally correspond to the shape of the sole area of ​​the human foot and provide arch support. The midsole 25 may be formed of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and / or one or more other closed-cell polymer foam materials. As described below, the midsole 25 may also have recesses 27 and 28 formed therein to accommodate controllers and other electronic components. The upwardly extending medial and lateral sides of the rear outsole section 18 may also provide additional medial and lateral support for the wearer's foot. In other embodiments, the insole may have different configurations; for example, the midsole may not cover all of the insole or may be absent entirely, and / or the insole may include other components.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a partially exploded internal perspective view of the sole structure 12. A sole support plate 29 is located in the sole region of the shoe 10. In an embodiment of the shoe 10, the sole support plate 29 is attached to the top surface 30 of the forefoot outsole section 17. The sole support plate 29 (which may be formed of a relatively rigid polymer or polymer composite) helps to stiffen the forefoot region of the forefoot outsole section 17 and provides a stable base for the tilt adjuster 16. A medial force-sensitive resistor (FSR) 32 and a lateral FSR 31 are attached to the top surface 33 of the sole support plate 29. As described below, FSRs 31 and 32 provide outputs that help determine the pressure within the chamber of the tilt adjuster 16.

[0049] The pivot element 34 is attached to the top surface 33 of the lower support plate 29. The pivot element 34 is positioned between FSRs 31 and 32 in the front portion of the bottom support plate 29. The pivot element 34 may be formed of hard rubber or one or more other materials that are generally incompressible under the load generated when the wearer of the shoe 10 runs.

[0050] The tilt adjuster 16 is attached to the top surface 33 of the lower support plate 29. The outer chamber 35 of the tilt adjuster 16 is positioned above the outer FSR 31. The inner chamber 36 of the tilt adjuster 16 is positioned above the inner FSR 32. The tilt adjuster 16 includes a fulcrum element 34 extending through a hole 37. At least a portion of the fulcrum element 34 is located between chambers 35 and 36. As described in more detail below, a through-hole 51 in the tilt adjuster 16 can be utilized during the manufacture of the tilt adjuster 51. The through-hole 51 can also be used to position and secure the tilt adjuster 16 relative to the lower support plate 29. Corresponding protrusions ( Figure 3 (Not shown) can be formed on the top surface 33 and can extend from the bottom side of the tilt adjuster 16 into the through hole 51.

[0051] The top support plate 41 is located in the sole area of ​​the shoe 10 and positioned above the tilt adjuster 16. In embodiments of the shoe 10, the top support plate 41 is generally aligned with the bottom support plate 29. The top support plate 41 (which may also be formed of a relatively rigid polymer or polymer composite) provides a stable and relatively non-deformable area against which the tilt adjuster 16 can rest, and this area supports the forefoot area of ​​the insole 14.

[0052] The forefoot portion of the underside of the midsole 25 is attached to the top surface 42 of the top support plate 41. The underside portions of the midsole 25 in the heel and side midfoot areas are attached to the top surface 43 of the rear outsole section 18. The end 19 of the forefoot outsole section 17 is attached to the rear outsole section 18 behind the rearmost position 44 of the front edge of the rear outsole section 18, thereby forming a joint 20. In some embodiments, the end 19 may be a protrusion that slides into a groove formed in the rear outsole section 18 at or near position 14, and / or may wedge between the top surface 43 and the underside of the midsole 25.

[0053] Figure 3 The diagram also shows a printed circuit board (PCB) 46 for a DC-HV-DC converter 45 and a controller 47. The converter 45 converts a low-voltage DC signal into a high-voltage (e.g., 5000V) DC signal applied to electrodes within the tilt adjuster 16. The PCB 46 includes one or more processors, memory, and other components, and is configured to control the tilt adjuster 16 via the converter 45. The PCB 46 also receives inputs from FSRs 31 and 32 and power from the battery cell 13. The PCB 46 and converter 45 can be attached to the top surface of the forefoot outsole section 17 in the midfoot area 48, and can also rest within recesses 28 and 27 in the lower midsole 25, respectively.

[0054] Figure 4A This is an enlarged rear top perspective view of the tilt adjuster 16. Figure 4B This is an enlarged top view of the tilt adjuster 16. Figure 4C It is along Figure 4B The diagram shows a cross-sectional view taken from a plane. The tilt adjuster 16 includes a body 65 ( Figure 4B A portion of the outer chamber 35 is defined by a flexible molded wall 67 extending upward from the outer side of the top 66 of the body 65. Another portion of the outer chamber 35 is defined by a corresponding area 69 in the body 65. Figure 4C A portion of the inner chamber 36 is defined by a flexible lateral midfoot region 68 extending upward from the inside of the top side 66, and another portion of the inner chamber 36 is defined by a corresponding region 70 in the main body 65.

[0055] The outer chamber 35 is in fluid communication with the inner chamber 36 via a fluid transfer channel 60 defined in the central portion of the body 65 and extending between chambers 35 and 36. Figures 4A-4C In this embodiment, the tilt adjuster 16 is opaque, therefore in Figure 4B In the diagram, the location of the transfer channel 60 is indicated by a small dashed line. ER fluid 59 fills chambers 35 and 36 and the transfer channel 60. One example of ER fluid that may be used in some embodiments is ER fluid called "RheOil 4.0" sold by ERF Produktion Würzberg GmbH. The internal volume of the outer chamber 35 can vary as ER fluid 59 flows in or out of the outer chamber 35. The portion of chamber 35 formed by the wall 67 is configured to expand when ER fluid 59 flows into the outer chamber 35, thereby causing the central section 71 of the wall 67 to move upward from the body 65. The internal volume of the inner chamber 36 can similarly vary as ER fluid 59 flows in or out of the inner chamber 36. The portion of chamber 36 formed by the wall 68 is configured to expand when ER fluid 59 flows into the inner chamber 36, thereby causing the central section 72 of the wall 68 to move upward from the body 65.

[0056] A pair of opposing electrodes are disposed on the bottom and top sides within the conveying channel 60 and extend along the flow regulating portion 61 of the conveying channel 60, as shown below. Figure 4B As shown by the large dashed line. Wires 53 and 54 are electrically contacted with the bottom electrode and the top electrode, respectively, and connected to the converter 45. The transfer channel 60 has a serpentine shape to provide an increased surface area for the electrodes within the channel 60, thereby generating an electric field in the ER fluid 59 within the channel 60. For example, and as... Figure 4B As can be seen, channel 60 includes three 180° curved sections that connect to other sections of the space between chambers 35 and 36. The maximum height h of the transfer channel 63 between the electrodes can be 1 mm, the average width w is 2 mm, and the length along the flow direction between chambers 35c and 36c is at least 200 mm. Alternatively, the maximum height h of the transfer channel 63 between the electrodes can be 1 mm, the average width w is 4 mm, and the length along the flow direction between chambers 35c and 36c is at least 200 mm.

[0057] In some embodiments, the height of the delivery channel can be effectively limited to a range of at least 0.250 mm and no more than 3.3 mm. The tilt adjuster, made of a flexible material, is able to bend along with the shoe during use. The bending across the delivery channel locally reduces the height at the bending point. If insufficient margin is allowed, the corresponding increase in electric field strength may exceed the maximum dielectric strength of the ER fluid, leading to electric field collapse. In extreme cases, the electrodes may become so close that they actually touch, similarly causing electric field collapse.

[0058] The viscosity of the ER fluid increases with the applied electric field strength. This effect is non-linear, and the optimal electric field strength is in the range of 3 to 6 kV / mm. High-voltage DC-DC converters used to boost 3-5V battery voltage may be limited by physical size and safety considerations, resulting in a power output of less than 2W or a maximum output voltage of less than or equal to 10kV. To keep the electric field strength within the desired range, the height of the transmission channel may be limited to a maximum of approximately 3.3mm (10kV / 3kV / mm) in some embodiments.

[0059] The width of the transfer channel can be practically limited to a range of at least 0.5 mm and no more than 4 mm. The maximum channel width may be limited by the physical space between the two chambers of the tilt adjuster. If the channel is wider, the material within the intermediate layer may become thinner and unsupported during construction, and the channel walls may be prone to detachment. The equivalent series resistance of the ER fluid also decreases with increasing channel width, which increases power consumption. For shoe sizes as small as M7 (US), the practical width can be limited to less than 4 mm.

[0060] The opposing electrode in the flow regulation section 61 of the transfer channel 60 can be energized to increase the viscosity of the ER fluid 59 in the flow regulation section 61, thereby slowing down or stopping the flow of the ER fluid 59 through the channel 6. When flow is possible through the transfer channel 60, the downward force acting on section 72 forces the ER fluid 59 out of the inner chamber 36, through the transfer channel 60, and into the outer chamber 35. As the ER fluid 59 is transferred out of the inner chamber 36 and into the outer chamber 35, section 72 moves downward toward the body 65, and section 71 moves upward away from the body 65. Conversely, the downward force acting on section 71 (when flow is possible through the transfer channel 60) forces the ER fluid 59 out of the outer chamber 35, through the transfer channel 60, and into the inner chamber 36. As the ER fluid 59 is transferred out of the outer chamber 35 and into the inner chamber 36, section 71 moves downward toward the body 65, while section 72 moves upward away from the body 65. (See the following text for further details.) Figures 10A-10D In more detail, the change in the relative height of sections 71 and 72 alters the tilt angle of the top support plate 41 relative to the bottom support plate 29.

[0061] The required length of the delivery channel can be a function of the maximum pressure difference between the chambers of the tilt regulator during use. The longer the channel, the greater the pressure difference that can be withstood. The optimal channel length can vary depending on the application and construction, and therefore can be different in different embodiments. A disadvantage of long channels when the electric field is eliminated is that they further restrict fluid flow. In some embodiments, the practical limitation of the channel length is in the range of 25 mm to 350 mm. In at least some embodiments, the flow regulating portion 61 may have an L / w ratio of at least 50, where L is the length of the flow regulating portion 61. In other embodiments, exemplary minimum values ​​for the L / w ratio of the delivery channel flow regulating portion include 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, and 170. In some embodiments, for a delivery channel with an average channel width of 4 mm, the minimum area of ​​each opposing electrode contacting the ER fluid in the flow regulating delivery channel portion can be 800 square millimeters. As explained in more detail below, the mounting features of the electrodes can be enclosed within the wall of the channel, and therefore may not contact the ER fluid. Therefore, the total area of ​​the electrodes can be larger than the exposed functional area.

[0062] like Figure 4C As can be seen, the wall 67 of the outer chamber 35 has an outer segment 73 that extends upward from the top side 66 and engages with an inner segment 75, wherein the inner segment 75 engages with segment 71. Segments 75 and 71 form a recess in the external shape of the outer chamber 35. This recess allows for a reduction in the total volume of ER fluid 59 required within the system. Figures 4A-4C In one embodiment, only the outer chamber 35 includes an external recess. In other embodiments, both the outer and inner chambers may include an external recess. In other embodiments, only the inner chamber may include a recess. In other embodiments, neither the inner nor the outer chamber includes a recess.

[0063] In some embodiments, the tilt adjuster chamber may have a bellows shape. For example, as... Figure 4C As can be seen, the outer section 73 has a bellows-shaped fold that defines the outer chamber 35. The side section 74 of the wall 68 also has a bellows-shaped fold that defines the inner chamber 36. Figures 4A-4C In some embodiments, the outer chamber has more folds on its sides than the inner chamber. In some embodiments, the chambers on both sides may have the same number of folds, while in other embodiments, the inner chamber may have more folds than the outer chamber. The bellows shape of the chambers helps to increase deflection during chamber expansion and contraction. This helps to minimize wear and reduce the total amount of ER fluid required within the system. In some embodiments, one or both chambers may not have a bellows shape.

[0064] In some embodiments, the tilt adjuster 16 can be manufactured by separately forming a bottom component and a top component. The bottom component may include regions 69 and 70 of chambers 35 and 36, the bottom portion of the delivery channel 60, and a bottom electrode, respectively. The top component may include walls 67 and 68 of chambers 35 and 36, the top portion of the delivery channel 60, and a top electrode, respectively. Once formed, the top side of the bottom component can be attached to the bottom side of the top component. The internal volume, which includes the internal volumes of chambers 35, 36, and the delivery channel 60, can then be filled with ER fluid 59 and sealed.

[0065] Figures 5A to 5C The steps in forming the bottom component of the tilt adjuster 16 are shown. First, as... Figure 5A As shown, the first layer 101 is injection molded. Layer 101 will form the bottom layer of the bottom component. Except for the rear extensions 103 and 104, the periphery of layer 101 has the same shape as the periphery of the body 65. Layer 101 is continuous except for the opening 51.1 that will form the bottom portion of the through hole 51 and the opening 37.1 that will form the bottom portion of the hole 37. The top surface 105 of layer 101 includes a protrusion 106. The protrusion 106 has a shape that corresponds to and defines the base of the bottom electrode 107.

[0066] Also in Figure 5A The bottom electrode 107 shown is a continuous sheet of metal. In some embodiments, the bottom electrode 107 may be formed from 0.05 mm thick cold-rolled steel plated with 1010 nickel. The electrode 107 includes a pad 108 for attaching the wire 53. The edge of the electrode 107 also includes a series of grooves 109 formed along both edges. An exemplary dimension of the grooves 109 is 0.5 mm × 1 mm. As described in more detail below, material may flow into the grooves 109 during the molding of the bottom component to hold the electrode 107 in place.

[0067] Extensions 103 and 104 will form neck portions with gates through which the tilt adjuster 16 fills ER fluid 59. After filling, these gates can be sealed and the necks removed. Channel 129 in extension 103 will form part of an outer gate. Channel 110 in extension 104 will form part of an inner gate.

[0068] exist Figure 5B In this configuration, electrode 107 is attached to protrusion 106. In some embodiments, pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) may be applied to the bottom surface of electrode 107 and / or the top surface of protrusion 106 to hold electrode 107 in place during subsequent molding operations (described below). Wire 53 may be placed in place and attached to pad 108 by soldering, using conductive epoxy resin, or by other techniques.

[0069] After attaching electrode 107 and wire 53, a second layer 112 is molded onto layer 101. The resulting bottom component 115 of the tilt adjuster 16 is... Figure 5C As shown in the diagram. Regions 69 and 70 of chambers 35 and 36 are defined in the top surface 116 of the bottom member 115, respectively. The bottom portion 60.1 of the transfer channel 60 is formed in the top surface 116 in a similar manner. A portion of the electrode 107 is exposed in the bottom portion 60.1. Openings 51.2 and 37.2 in layer 112, aligned with openings 51.1 and 37.1 in layer 101, will form additional portions of through holes 51 and 37 in the completed tilt adjuster 16. Layer 112 also includes extensions 113 and 114 covering extensions 103 and 104 of layer 101. A raised region 119 extending from the top surface 116 above the conductor 53 will mate with a recess in the bottom surface of the top member of the tilt adjuster 16. A recess 120 is formed in the top surface 116 to accommodate a corresponding raised region corresponding to the lower conductor 54 in the bottom surface of the top member.

[0070] In some embodiments, layer 101 may be injection molded from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Layer 112 may be overmolded onto layer 101 (which has attached electrodes 107 and wires 53) by injection molding additional TPU. Layer 112 may be formed from the same type of TPU used to form layer 101.

[0071] Figures 6A to 6C The steps for forming the top component of the tilt adjuster 16 are shown. First, as... Figure 6A As shown, the first layer 151 is injection molded. Layer 151 will form the top layer of the top component. Except for the rear extensions 153 and 154, the periphery of layer 151 has the same shape as the periphery of the body 65. Layer 151 is continuous except for the opening 51.3 that will form the topmost portion of the through hole 51 and the opening 37.3 that will form the topmost portion of the hole 37. The top surface 155 of layer 151 includes a protrusion 156. The protrusion 156 has a shape that corresponds to and defines the base of the top electrode 157. Similarly, as... Figure 6A As shown, layer 151 includes opposing walls 67 and 68, which are joined to the remainder of layer 151 around its edge. Layer 151 and Figure 4A The tilt adjuster 16 in the middle is oriented in the opposite direction. Specifically, the bottom side of layer 151 is in... Figure 6A The top portion of layer 151 surrounding walls 67 and 68 will form the top 66 of body 65 in the completed tilt adjuster 16, said portion being... Figure 6ANot visible in the middle. Extensions 153 and 154 will form neck portions with gates through which the tilt adjuster 16 can fill ER fluid 59. Channel 179 in extension 153 will form part of the outer gate. Channel 160 in extension 154 will form part of the inner gate.

[0072] Top electrode 157 is also present Figure 6A As shown in the figure. Electrode 157 is also a continuous metal sheet and can be formed from the same material used to form electrode 107. Electrode 157 includes a pad 158 for attaching wire 54. The edges of electrode 157 also include a series of grooves 159 formed along both edges. Exemplary dimensions of the grooves 159 can be the same as the dimensions of the grooves 109 in electrode 107.

[0073] exist Figure 6B In this configuration, electrode 157 is attached to protrusion 156. In some embodiments, PSA may be applied to the top surface of electrode 157 and / or the bottom surface of protrusion 156 to hold electrode 157 in place during subsequent molding operations (as described below). Wire 54 may be placed in place and attached to pad 158 by soldering, using conductive epoxy resin, or by other techniques.

[0074] After attaching electrode 157 and wire 54, a second layer 162 is molded onto layer 151. The resulting bottom component 165 of the tilt adjuster 16 is... Figure 6C As shown in the diagram. Openings are defined in the bottom surface 166 of the top component 165, leading to the internal regions of chambers 35 and 36 within walls 67 and 68, respectively. The top portion 60.2 of the transfer channel 60 is formed in the bottom surface 166 in a similar manner. A portion of the electrode 157 is exposed in the top portion 60.2. Openings 51.4 and 37.4 in layer 162, aligned with openings 51.3 and 37.3 in layer 151, will form additional portions of through holes 51 and 37 in the completed tilt adjuster 16. Layer 162 also includes extensions 163 and 164 covering extensions 153 and 154 of layer 151. A raised region 169 extending from the bottom surface 166 above the conductor 54 will fit into a recess 120 in the top surface 116 of the bottom component 115. A recess 170 is formed in the bottom surface 166 to receive the raised region 119 in the top surface 116 of the bottom component 115.

[0075] In some embodiments, layer 151 may be injection molded from TPU. Layer 162 may be overmolded onto layer 151 (which has attached electrodes 157 and wires 54) by injection molding another TPU. Layers 151 and 162 may be formed from the same type of TPU used to form layers 101 and 112, or they may be formed from different types of TPU.

[0076] Figure 7A The assembly of the tilt adjuster 16 is shown after the manufacture of the bottom component 115 and the top component 116. The bottom surface 166 of the top component 165 is positioned to contact the top surface 116 of the bottom component 115. Components 115 and 165 are assembled such that the bottom portion 60.1 and the top portion 60.2 are aligned to form a transfer channel 60, region 69 is aligned with an opening leading to the interior of a cavity defined by wall 67 to form an outer chamber 35, region 70 is aligned with an opening leading to the interior of a cavity defined by wall 68 to form an inner chamber 36, a raised region 119 is located within a recess 170, and a raised region 169 is located within a recess 120.

[0077] Figure 7B The alignment of components 115 and 165 during assembly is illustrated according to some embodiments. A pin 91 is inserted through a rear outer hole in component 115 formed by holes 50.1 in layer 101 and 50.2 in layer 112. Pin 91 is then inserted through a rear outer hole in component 165 formed by holes 50.3 in layer 151 and 50.4 in layer 162. Similarly, pin 92 is inserted through rear inner holes in both component 115 and 165, pin 93 is inserted through front outer holes in both component 115 and 165, and pin 94 is inserted through front inner holes in both component 115 and 165. Components 115 and 165 can then be slid along pins 91-94 until surfaces 116 and 166 contact. Surfaces 116 and 166 can then be bonded together using radio frequency soldering or chemical adhesives.

[0078] Figure 7C This is an enlarged perspective view of the tilt adjuster 16 after the assembly of parts 115 and 165, but before it is filled with ER fluid 59. For illustrative purposes, in Figure 7C Layers 101, 112, 151, and 152 are shown. However, in at least some embodiments (e.g., when all layers use the same material of the same color), the individual layers may be indistinguishable in the tilt adjuster 16.

[0079] Neck 193 is formed by rear extensions 103 and 113 of layers 101 and 112, and rear extensions 153 and 163 of layers 151 and 162, respectively. Gate 191, formed by channels 129 and 179, provides access to the outer chamber 35. Neck 194 is formed by rear extensions 104 and 114 of layers 101 and 112, and rear extensions 154 and 164 of layers 151 and 162, respectively. Gate 192, formed by channels 110 and 160, provides access to the inner chamber 36. ER fluid 59 can then be injected through either gate 191 or 192 until it flows out of the other gate. In some embodiments, a degassing procedure such as that described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0150785 (incorporated herein by reference) may be used. In some embodiments, a degassing procedure, such as that described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application entitled “Degassing Electrorheological Fluid” (filed on the same day as this application), may be used (incorporated herein by reference). After filling and degassing, gates 191 and 192 may be sealed (e.g., by radio frequency welding across gates 191 and 192), thereby sealing the internal volume formed by the internal volumes of chambers 35 and 36 and delivery channel 60. The portions of necks 193 and 194 behind the seal may then be trimmed.

[0080] Figure 8 yes Figure 4B This is an enlarged cross-sectional view, showing additional details of the transport channels embedded in electrodes 107 and 157. The bottom electrode 107 spans the bottom of the transport channel 60 in the flow regulating section 61. The top electrode 157 spans the top of the transport channel 60 in the flow regulating section 61. The side edges of electrodes 107 and 157 extend across the sides of the transport channel 60 and into the material of the body 65. Figure 8 As seen, the material of the body 65 has flowed into and solidified within the grooves 109 and 159, anchoring the electrodes 107 and 157 in place. As described above, in some embodiments, the maximum height h of the transfer channel 63 between the electrodes can be 1 mm, and the average width w is 2 mm.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a block diagram showing the electrical system components of shoe 10. (Pointing to or from...) Figure 9The individual lines within the boxes represent signal (e.g., data and / or power) flow paths and are not necessarily intended to represent individual conductors. Battery pack 13 includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery 201, a battery connector 202, and a lithium-ion battery protection IC (integrated circuit) 203. Protection IC 203 detects abnormal charging and discharging conditions, controls the charging of battery 201, and performs other conventional battery protection circuit operations. Battery pack 13 also includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port 208 for communicating with controller 47 and for charging battery 201. Power path control unit 209 controls power supply to controller 47 from USB port 208 or from battery 201. On / off (O / O) button 206 activates or deactivates controller 47 and battery pack 13. LED (light-emitting diode) 207 indicates whether the electrical system is on or off. The aforementioned individual components of battery pack 13 may be conventionally commercially available parts combined and used in the novel and inventive manner described herein.

[0082] The controller 47 includes components housed on a PCB 46 and a converter 45. In other embodiments, the components of the PCB 46 and the converter 45 may be included on a single PCB or may be otherwise packaged. The controller 47 includes a processor 210, a memory 211, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 213, and a low-energy wireless communication module 212 (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module). The memory 211 stores instructions that can be executed by the processor 210 and may also store other data. The processor 210 executes the instructions stored in the memory 211 and / or stored in the processor 210, which causes the controller 47 to perform operations such as those described herein. As used herein, the instructions may include hard-coded instructions and / or programmable instructions.

[0083] IMU 213 may include a gyroscope and an accelerometer and / or magnetometer. Processor 210 can use the data output from IMU 213 to detect changes in the orientation and movement of shoe 10, thereby detecting changes in the orientation and movement of the foot wearing shoe 10. As explained in more detail below, processor 10 can use such information to determine when the tilt of a portion of shoe 10 should change. Wireless communication module 212 may include an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) and is used to transmit programming and other instructions to processor 210, as well as download data that can be stored in memory 211 or processor 210.

[0084] Controller 47 includes a low-dropout voltage regulator (LDO) 214 and a boost regulator / converter 215. LDO 214 receives power from battery pack 13 and outputs a constant voltage to processor 210, memory 211, wireless communication module 212, and IMU 213. Boost regulator / converter 215 boosts the voltage from battery pack 13 to a level that provides an acceptable input voltage (e.g., 5 volts) to converter 45. Converter 45 then increases this voltage to a higher level (e.g., 5000 volts) and provides this high voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 of tilt regulator 16. Boost regulator / converter 215 and converter 45 are enabled and disabled by signals from processor 210. Controller 47 also receives signals from outer FSR 31 and inner FSR 32. Based on the signals from FSR 31 and FSR 32, processor 210 determines whether the force from the wearer's foot acting on the outer fluid chamber 35 and the inner fluid chamber 36 is generating pressure in chamber 35 that is higher than the pressure in chamber 36, and vice versa.

[0085] The individual components of controller 47 described above may be conventionally available commercially available parts that are combined and used in a novel and inventive manner as described herein. Furthermore, controller 47 is physically configured, by means of instructions stored in memory 211 and / or processor 210, to perform the novel and inventive operations described herein relating to fluid transfer between control chambers 35 and 36, in order to adjust the inclination of the forefoot portion of insole 14 of shoe 10.

[0086] Figures 10A to 10D This is a partial schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of the tilt adjuster 16 according to some embodiments, from a minimum tilt state to a maximum tilt state. In the minimum tilt state, the tilt angle α of the top plate relative to the bottom plate is αmin, which represents the minimum amount of tilt provided by the sole structure 12 in the forefoot area. In some embodiments, αmin = 0°. In the maximum tilt state, the tilt angle α has a value αmax, which represents the maximum amount of tilt provided by the sole structure 12. In some embodiments, αmax is at least 5°. In some embodiments, αmax = 10°. In some embodiments, αmax may be greater than 10°.

[0087] Figures 10A-10DThe image shows the base plate 29, tilt adjuster 16, top plate 41, FSR 31, FSR 32, and fulcrum element 34, but other elements are omitted for simplicity. The top plate 41 and other elements of the sole structure 12 are configured such that downward forces on the plate 41 toward the tilt adjuster 16 are transmitted to the inner chamber 36 and the outer chamber 35, and / or to the fulcrum 34 and / or other elements, but not to the central portion of the body 65 between chambers 35 and 36, and such that this downward force on the plate 41 does not compress the area containing the central portion of electrodes 107 and 157. Figure 10E This is a top view of the tilt adjuster 16 (in its minimum tilt state) and the base plate 29, showing the corresponding... Figures 10A-10D The approximate location of the section lines in the view. Top plate 41 from Figure 10E The middle is omitted if the top plate 41 is included. Figure 10E Inside, the perimeter edge of the top plate 41 roughly matches the perimeter edge of the bottom plate 29. Although according to Figure 10E The cross-sectional line, the fulcrum element 34 will not appear in the cross-section, but is indicated by a dashed line relative to it. Figures 10A-10D The inner and outer sides of other components, and the general position of the fulcrum element 34.

[0088] Figures 10A-10D The inner stop 83 and outer stop 82 are also shown. When the tilt adjuster 16 and the top plate 41 are in their maximum tilt state, the inner stop 83 supports the inner side of the top plate 41. When the tilt adjuster 16 and the top plate 41 are in their minimum tilt state, the outer stop 82 supports the outer side of the top plate 41. The outer stop 82 prevents the top plate 41 from tilting outward. Because runners move counterclockwise around the track during a race, when running on the curved sections of the track, the wearer of shoe 10 will turn to his or her left. In this usage scenario, it is not necessary to tilt the insole of the right sole structure outward. However, in other embodiments, the sole structure may tilt inward or outward.

[0089] In some embodiments, the left shoe in a pair of shoes including shoe 10 can be used with Figures 10A-10D The configuration is slightly different as shown. For example, the height of the inner stop can be similar to the height of the outer stop 82 of the shoe 10, while the height of the outer stop can be similar to the height of the inner stop 83 of the shoe 10. In such an embodiment, the top plate of the left shoe moves between a minimum tilt state and a maximum tilt state, wherein the top plate tilts outward.

[0090] The positions of the inner stop 83 and the outer stop 82 are as follows: Figure 10A and Figure 10BThe figure is schematically shown and not shown in the previous figures. In some embodiments, the outer stop 82 may be formed as a rim on the outer side or edge of the base plate 29. Similarly, the inner stop 83 may be formed as a rim on the inner side or edge of the base plate 29.

[0091] Figure 10A The tilt adjuster 16 is shown when the top plate 41 is in its minimum tilt state. The shoe 10 can be configured to place the top plate 41 in its minimum tilt state when the wearer of the shoe 10 is standing or in the starting line before a race begins, or when the wearer is running. Figure 10A In this configuration, controller 47 maintains the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 at one or more flow suppression voltage levels (V = Vfi). The voltage across electrodes 107 and 158 is sufficiently high to generate an electric field with a strength sufficient to increase the viscosity of the ER fluid 59 in the delivery channel 60 to a viscosity level that prevents it from flowing out of or into chambers 35 and 36. In some embodiments, the flow suppression voltage level Vfi is a voltage sufficient to generate an electric field strength between 3 kV / mm and 6 kV / mm between electrodes 107 and 157. Figures 10A-10D In the middle, light dots are used to indicate ER fluid 59 with a viscosity at its normal viscosity level (i.e., unaffected by the electric field). Dense dots are used to indicate ER fluid 59 where the viscosity has increased to a level that blocks flow through channel 60. Because ER fluid 59 is... Figure 10A In the state shown, the flow cannot pass through channel 60. When the wearer of shoe 10 shifts their center of gravity between the inside and outside of shoe 10, the tilt angle α of top plate 41 does not change.

[0092] Figure 10B The tilt adjuster 16 is shown shortly after the controller 47 has determined that the top plate 41 should be placed in its maximum tilt state (i.e., tilted to α = αmax). In some embodiments, and as explained below, the controller 47 makes this determination based on the number of steps taken by the wearer of the shoe 10. When determining that the top plate 41 should tilt to αmax, the controller 47 determines whether the shoe 10 worn by the foot is in part of the wearer's gait cycle in which the shoe 10 is in contact with the ground. The controller 47 also determines whether the difference ΔPM-L between the pressure PM of the ER fluid 59 in the inner chamber 36 and the pressure PL of the ER fluid 59 in the outer chamber 35 is positive, i.e., whether PM-PL is greater than zero. If the shoe 10 is in contact with the ground and ΔPM-L is positive, the controller 47 reduces the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to the flow-initiating voltage level Vfe. Specifically, the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 is reduced to a sufficiently low level to reduce the electric field strength in the transmission channel 60, so that the viscosity of the ER fluid 59 in the transmission channel 60 is at a normal viscosity level.

[0093] When the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 is reduced to the Vfe level, the viscosity of the ER fluid 59 in channel 60 decreases. The ER fluid 59 then begins to flow out of chamber 36 and into chamber 35. This allows the inner side of top plate 41 to begin moving towards bottom plate 29, and the outer side of top plate 41 to begin moving away from bottom plate 29. Therefore, the tilt angle α increases from αmin.

[0094] In some embodiments, controller 47 determines whether shoe 10 is in the stepping portion of a gait cycle and in contact with the ground based on data from IMU 213. Specifically, IMU 213 may include a three-axis accelerometer and a three-axis gyroscope. Using data from the accelerometer and gyroscope, and based on known biomechanics of a runner's foot, such as rotation and acceleration in various directions during different portions of the gait cycle, controller 479 can determine whether the right foot of the wearer of shoe 10 is properly planted on the ground. Controller 47 may determine whether ΔPM-L is positive based on signals from FSR 31 and FSR 32. Each of these signals corresponds to the magnitude of the force exerted by the wearer's foot on the FSR. Based on the magnitude of these forces and the known dimensions of chambers 35 and 36, controller 47 can correlate the signal values ​​from FSR 31 and FSR 32 with the magnitude and sign of ΔPM-L.

[0095] Figure 10C It shows that in relation to Figure 10B The tilt adjuster 16 was activated shortly after the associated time. Figure 10C In the middle, the top plate 41 has reached its maximum tilt state. Specifically, the tilt angle α of the top plate 41 has reached αmax. The inner stop 83 prevents the tilt angle α from exceeding αmax. Figure 10D It shows that in relation to Figure 10C The tilt adjuster 16 was activated shortly after the associated time. Figure 10D In this process, controller 47 raises the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to the flow suppression voltage level Vfi. This prevents further flow through transfer channel 60 and keeps top plate 41 at its maximum tilt. During a normal gait cycle, as the forefoot rolls inward, the downward force of the right foot on the shoe is initially higher on the lateral side. If the flow through channel 60 is not blocked, the initial downward force on the lateral side of the wearer's right foot will reduce the tilt angle α.

[0096] In some embodiments, the wearer of shoe 10 may need to take several steps to bring the top plate 41 to its maximum tilt. Therefore, when controller 47 determines (based on data from IMU 213 and FSRs 31 and 32) that the wearer's foot has left the ground, controller 47 can be configured to increase the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157. Then, when controller 47 again determines that shoe 10 is firmly planted on the ground and ΔPM-L is positive, controller 47 can decrease that voltage. This can be repeated a predetermined number of steps. Figure 11A The figure shows graphs of the inner-outer pressure difference ΔPM-L, the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157, and the tilt angle α at different times during the transition from the minimum tilt state to the maximum tilt state.

[0097] At time T1, controller 47 determines that the top plate 41 of shoe 10 should transition to the maximum tilt state. At time T2, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is on the ground, but ΔPM-L is negative. At time T3, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is on the ground and ΔPM-L is positive, and the controller reduces the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfe. As a result, the tilt angle α of the top plate 41 increases from αmin. At time T4, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is no longer on the ground, and the controller increases the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfi. As a result, the tilt angle α remains at its current value. At time T5, controller 47 again determines that shoe 10 is on the ground, but ΔPM-L is negative. At time T6, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is on the ground and ΔPM-L is positive, controller 47 again reduces the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfe, and the tilt angle α resumes increasing. At time T7, the tilt angle α reaches αmax. The tilt angle α stops increasing because the inner stop 83 prevents further tilting of the top plate 41. At time T8, the controller 47 determines that the shoe 10 is no longer touching the ground, and the controller 47 again raises the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfi. The controller 47 maintains the voltage at Vfi through further step cycles until the controller 47 determines that the top plate 41 should transition to the minimum tilt state.

[0098] Figure 11BThe graph shows the pressure difference ΔPM-L between the inner and outer sides, the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157, and the tilt angle α at different times during the transition from the maximum tilt state to the minimum tilt state. At time T11, controller 47 determines that the top plate 47 of shoe 10 should transition to the minimum tilt state. At time T12, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is on the ground and ΔPM-L is negative, and controller 47 reduces the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfe. As a result, and because a negative ΔPM-L indicates that the pressure Plat in the outer chamber 35 is higher than the pressure Pmed in the inner chamber 36, ER fluid 59 begins to flow out of the outer chamber 35 and into the inner chamber 36, and the tilt angle α begins to decrease from αmax. At time T13, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is on the ground, but ΔPM-L is positive, and controller 47 increases the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfi. As a result, the tilt angle α of the top plate 41 is maintained. At time T14, controller 47 determines that shoe 10 is on the ground again and ΔPM-L is negative, and controller 47 reduces the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfe. As a result, the tilt angle α continues to decrease. At time T15, the tilt angle α reaches αmin. The tilt angle α stops decreasing because further tilting of the top plate 41 is prevented by the outer stop 82. At time T16, controller 47 determines that ΔPM-L is positive, and controller 47 again increases the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 to Vfi. Controller 47 maintains the voltage at Vfi through further step cycles until controller 47 determines that the top plate 41 should transition to the maximum tilt state.

[0099] In the example described above, controller 47 reduces the voltage across electrodes 107 and 157 during two step cycles to transition between tilt states. However, in other embodiments, controller 47 may reduce the voltage over fewer or more step cycles. The number of step cycles transitioning from minimum tilt to maximum tilt may differ from the number of step cycles transitioning from maximum tilt to minimum tilt.

[0100] In some embodiments, controller 47 determines when to transition to the maximum incline position by counting the number of steps taken from initialization and whether the number of steps is sufficient to position the wearer of shoe 10 within a portion of the track curve. Typically, track athletes have very consistent stride lengths. The track dimensions and distances from the starting line to the curves in each track are known quantities that can be stored by controller 47. Based on the lane assignment instructions from the wearer of shoe 10 to controller 47 and the input indicating the wearer's stride length, controller 47 can determine the wearer's track position by recording the number of steps taken. As described above, controller 47 can determine the position of shoe 10 within gait cycles based on data from IMU 213. These gait cycle determinations can indicate when a step has been taken.

[0101] In some embodiments, the left shoe of a pair of shoes including shoe 10 can operate in a manner similar to shoe 10 described above, but with a maximum tilt state indicating the maximum tilt of the top plate of the left shoe towards the outside. The operation performed by the left shoe controller is similar to that described above. Figure 11A-11B The operations described are determined based on the sign of ΔPM-L rather than on the sign of ΔPL-M = PL-PM, where PL is the pressure in the fluid chamber on the outer side of the left shoe and PM is the pressure in the fluid chamber on the inner side of the left shoe.

[0102] In some embodiments, the shoe controller may determine when to transition from minimum tilt to maximum tilt and vice versa based on other types of input. In some such embodiments, for example, the wearer may be wearing clothing that includes one or more IMUs located on the wearer's torso and / or at some other location outside the shoe. The outputs of these sensors can be transmitted via a wireless module similar to 212 (…). Figure 9 The wireless interface transmits data to the shoe controller. Upon receiving output from these sensors indicating that the wearer has adopted a body posture consistent with the need to tilt the shoe's top plate (e.g., when the wearer's body leans to one side while running on a track curve), the controller can perform an action to tilt the shoe's top plate. In other embodiments, the shoe controller may determine its location in other ways (e.g., based on GPS signals).

[0103] The controller does not need to be located within the sole structure. In some embodiments, for example, some or all of the controller components may be positioned together with the housing of the battery assembly (such as battery assembly 13) and / or in another housing positioned on the upper of the footwear.

[0104] Figure 12AThis is an enlarged rear outer top perspective view of the tilt adjuster 316 according to another embodiment. The tilt adjuster 316 operates in a similar manner to that described above in conjunction with the tilt adjuster 16 and may replace the tilt adjuster 16 in the sole structure 12 of the shoe 10. Except as indicated in more detail below, the tilt adjuster 316 may have the same or similar structure as the tilt adjuster 16. Figure 12B This is an enlarged rear inner top perspective view of the tilt adjuster 316. Figure 12C This is an enlarged top view of the tilt adjuster 316. Figure 13 From Figure 12C The image shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the area captured by the plane.

[0105] The tilt adjuster 316 includes a body 365. A portion of the outer chamber 335 is defined by a flexible molded wall 367 extending upward from the outer side of the top 366 of the body 365. Another portion of the outer chamber 335 is defined by a corresponding area 369 in the body 365. Figure 13 A portion of the inner chamber 336 is defined by a flexible lateral midfoot region 368 extending upward from the inner side of the top side 366, and another portion of the inner chamber 336 is defined by a corresponding region 370 in the main body 365. Region 370 is in Figures 12A-13 Invisible in the middle, but in Figure 14 As shown below (discussed).

[0106] The outer chamber 335 is connected by a fluid transfer channel 360 defined in the central portion of the body 365 and extending between chambers 335 and 336. Figure 12C It is in fluid communication with the inner chamber 336. ER fluid 59 fills chambers 335 and 336 and the delivery channel 360. A pair of opposing electrodes are located within the delivery channel 360 and extend along the flow regulation portion of the delivery channel 360. Figures 12A-13 In this example, the flow regulation section becomes an extension of the entire transmission channel 360. Wires 353 and 354 are in electrical contact with the bottom and top electrodes, respectively, and can be connected to the converter 45.

[0107] Chamber 335 has a similar shape in the plane of body 365 to chamber 35 in the plane of body 65, but has a different vertical profile. Specifically, the outer portion of wall 367 does not include a fold. However, similar to chamber 35, chamber 335 includes a recess in its external shape. Similarly, chamber 336 has a similar shape in the plane of body 365 to chamber 36 in the plane of body 65, but has a different vertical profile. Like wall 367 of chamber 335, the outer portion of wall 368 does not include a fold. The top of chamber 336 is generally flat, but includes a groove 599 formed in a region.

[0108] Unlike the tilt adjuster 16, which includes electrodes 107 and 157 formed of metal sheets, the tilt adjuster 316 includes electrodes formed of conductive rubber. Furthermore, the electrodes of the tilt adjuster 316 have a different cross-sectional profile and relative position than those of electrodes 107 and 157. Figure 13 As can be seen, the cross-section of the top electrode 457 typically has a "C" shape rotated 90 degrees clockwise. The concave inner surface of the top electrode faces downward and forms the top and side walls of the conveying channel 360 along the flow regulating portion. Small portions of the outer side and inner side of electrode 457 near the edge are embedded in the material of the body within trenches 594, 595, and 597. The bottom electrode 407 has a square cross-section that typically joins to a semicircle. The bottom portion of electrode 407 is embedded in the material of the body 365 within trench 596. A portion of electrode 407 with a semicircular cross-sectional shape protrudes upward into the conveying channel 360 and into the concave cavity of the inner side of electrode 457.

[0109] In some embodiments, the radius of the concave side of the electrode 457 exposed to the ER fluid 59 and the radius of the portion of the electrode 407 protruding into the cavity are both circular and concentric, such that the cross-sectional shape of the transfer channel 60 is semi-annular. In some such embodiments, the values ​​of the radius of the concave side of the electrode 457 exposed to the ER fluid 59 and the radius of the portion of the electrode 407 protruding into the cavity are 1.5 mm and 0.5 mm, respectively. An example of materials that can form electrodes 407 and 457 is a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TEO) with embedded stainless steel fibers, sold by RTP under the product name EMI 2862-60A, which has a Shore A hardness of 60 and the following typical electrical properties: volume resistivity less than 1 ohm ms-cm (measured according to ASTM D 257), surface resistivity less than 10,000 ohms / square (measured according to ASTM D 257 and ESD STM11.11), surface resistance less than 1,000 ohms (measured according to ESD STM11.11), and electrostatic decay less than 2 seconds (according to MIL-PRF-81705D, 5kV to 50V, 12%RH) (measured according to FTMS101C 4046.1).

[0110] In other embodiments, the tilt adjuster may be similar to tilt adjuster 316 (and include electrodes similar to electrodes 407 and 457), but may also include bellows-shaped chambers (e.g., chambers 35 and 36 similar to tilt adjuster 16). Alternatively, in such embodiments, only one chamber may include a bellows shape.

[0111] The tilt adjuster 316 can be manufactured by forming a bottom part 315 and a top part 365 respectively, such as Figure 14As shown in the diagram. The bottom component may include regions 369 and 370 of chambers 335 and 336, the bottom portion of the transfer channel 360, and a bottom electrode 407, respectively. The top component may include walls 367 and 368 of chambers 335 and 336, the top portion of the transfer channel 360, and a top electrode 457, respectively.

[0112] The bottom component 315 can be formed in a two-step injection molding process. In the first step, a layer corresponding to the bottom component 315 without the electrode 407 is molded. In this layer, a groove 596 is formed in the bottom portion of the transfer channel 360 in which a portion of the electrode 457 will be embedded (see...). Figure 13 Grooves 594 and 595 are formed at the edge of the bottom portion of the transfer channel 360 to the edge into which the top electrode 457 will be placed during assembly. A wire 353 may also be molded into the layer, with a portion of the wire extending into the groove 596 to contact the lower electrode 407 after formation. In a second step of the injection molding process, the electrode 407 can be molded in place.

[0113] The top component 365 can also be formed in a two-step injection molding process. In the first step, a layer corresponding to the top component 365 without the electrode 457 is molded. In this layer, a groove 597 is formed in the top portion of the transfer channel 360 in which a portion of the electrode 457 will be embedded (see...). Figure 13 Alternatively, wire 354 can be molded into the layer, with a portion of the wire extending into the trench 597 to contact the upper electrode 457 after formation. In a second step of the injection molding process, electrode 457 can be molded in place.

[0114] After components 315 and 365 have been formed, the top side of the bottom component 315 can be joined to the bottom side of the top component 365. Components 315 and 365 are assembled such that the bottom and top of the transfer channel 360 are aligned to form the transfer channel 360, and the edges of the electrode 457 extend into the trenches 594 and 595. Region 369 is aligned with an opening leading to the interior of a cavity defined by wall 367 to form an outer chamber 335. Region 370 is aligned with an opening leading to the interior of a cavity defined by wall 368 to form an inner chamber 336. During assembly, the alignment of components 315 and 365 can be similar to that of joining. Figure 7B The process is carried out in a similar manner. After assembly, the contact surfaces of the top side of component 315 and the bottom side of component 365 can be bonded using radio frequency soldering or chemical adhesives. The internal volume, including the internal volumes of chambers 335, 336, and the delivery channel 360, can then be filled with ER fluid 59 and sealed in a manner similar to that described for the incorporation tilt adjuster 316.

[0115] To avoid ambiguity, this application includes the subject matter described in the following numbered paragraphs:

[0116] 1. An article of manufacture comprising: a tilt adjuster including a body, a variable-volume outer chamber extending outwardly on an outer side of the body, and a variable-volume inner chamber extending outwardly on an inner side of the body, wherein the tilt adjuster further comprises: a transfer channel defined in a central portion of the body and extending between the outer chamber and the inner chamber; an electrorheological fluid filling the outer chamber, the transfer channel, and the inner chamber; a first sheet electrode embedded in the central portion and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transfer channel; and a second sheet electrode embedded in the central portion at a position opposite to the first electrode and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transfer channel.

[0117] 2. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 1, wherein the outer portion of the tilt adjuster corresponding to the outer chamber is configured to expand outward in response to the electrorheological fluid flowing into the outer chamber from the transfer channel, and the outer portion of the tilt adjuster corresponding to the inner chamber is configured to expand outward in response to the electrorheological fluid flowing into the inner chamber from the transfer channel.

[0118] 3. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the path of the transport channel extends along a non-linear transport channel path between the outer chamber and the inner chamber, and the first electrode and the second electrode each have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transport channel path.

[0119] 4. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 3, wherein both the first electrode and the second electrode cover a portion of the extended transport channel path having a length L and an average width W, and the ratio L / W is at least 50.

[0120] 5. The article of any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode each have side edges embedded in the central portion and not exposed to the electrorheological fluid.

[0121] 6. The article of the method according to paragraph 5, wherein each of the side edges includes a hole extending completely through the electrode corresponding to the side edge, and each of the holes is filled with a solid material forming the central portion.

[0122] 7. The article of any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the outer cavity includes a flexible outer cavity wall extending upward from the top outer side of the body, and the inner cavity includes a flexible inner cavity wall extending upward from the top inner side of the body.

[0123] 8. The article of the method according to paragraph 7, wherein the outer cavity wall includes a central section of the outer cavity wall and a side section of the outer cavity wall surrounding the central section of the outer cavity wall, and the side section of the outer cavity wall includes at least one fold that defines a bellows shape of the outer cavity.

[0124] 9. The article of claim 7, wherein the inner cavity wall includes a central section of the inner cavity wall and a side section of the inner cavity wall surrounding the central section of the inner cavity wall, and the side section of the inner cavity wall includes at least one fold that defines a bellows shape of the inner cavity.

[0125] 10. The article of claim 9, wherein the outer cavity wall includes a central section of the outer cavity wall and a side section of the outer cavity wall surrounding the central section of the outer cavity wall, and the side section of the outer cavity wall includes at least one fold that defines a bellows shape of the outer cavity.

[0126] 11. The article of any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the outer chamber and the inner chamber has an external shape including a recess.

[0127] 12. The article according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, wherein the article is a footwear article including a sole structure, and the tilt adjuster forms part of the forefoot portion of the sole structure.

[0128] 13. The article of the invention according to paragraph 12, wherein the plate is located above the tilt adjuster, rests on the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and is positioned such that a downward force acting on the plate in the direction toward the tilt adjuster is transmitted to the inner chamber and the outer chamber and not to the central portion.

[0129] 14. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 12 or 13, wherein the plate is located above the tilt adjuster and extends above the inner chamber, the central portion and the outer chamber, and the plate and the tilt adjuster are arranged such that a downward force acting on the plate toward the tilt adjuster does not compress the region of the central portion containing the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0130] 15. An article of manufacture comprising: a tilt adjuster including a body, a variable-volume outer chamber extending outwardly on an outer side of the body, and a variable-volume inner chamber extending outwardly on an inner side of the body, wherein the tilt adjuster further comprises: a transfer channel defined in a central portion of the body and extending between the outer chamber and the inner chamber; an electrorheological fluid filling the outer chamber, the transfer channel, and the inner chamber; a first conductive rubber electrode embedded in the central portion and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transfer channel; and a second conductive rubber electrode embedded in the central portion at a position opposite to the first electrode and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transfer channel.

[0131] 16. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 15, wherein the outer portion of the tilt adjuster corresponding to the outer chamber is configured to expand outward in response to the electrorheological fluid flowing into the outer chamber from the transfer channel, and the outer portion of the tilt adjuster corresponding to the inner chamber is configured to expand outward in response to the electrorheological fluid flowing into the inner chamber from the transfer channel.

[0132] 17. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 15 or 16, wherein the path of the transport channel extends along a non-linear transport channel path between the outer chamber and the inner chamber, and the first electrode and the second electrode each have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transport channel path.

[0133] 18. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 17, wherein both the first electrode and the second electrode cover a portion of the extended transport channel path having a length L and an average width W, and the ratio L / W is at least 50.

[0134] 19. The article of any one of paragraphs 15 to 18, wherein the concave side of the first electrode is exposed to the electrorheological fluid, and a portion of the second electrode protruding into the cavity of the concave side is exposed to the electrorheological fluid.

[0135] 20. The article of any one of paragraphs 15 to 19, wherein the outer cavity includes a flexible outer cavity wall extending upward from the top outer side of the body, and the inner cavity includes a flexible inner cavity wall extending upward from the top inner side of the body.

[0136] 21. The article of the invention according to paragraph 20, wherein the outer cavity wall includes a central section of the outer cavity wall and a side section of the outer cavity wall surrounding the central section of the outer cavity wall, and the side section of the outer cavity wall includes at least one fold that defines a bellows shape of the outer cavity.

[0137] 22. The article of the claim 20, wherein the inner cavity wall comprises an inner cavity wall central section and an inner cavity wall side section surrounding the inner cavity wall central section, and the inner cavity wall side section comprises at least one fold defining a bellows shape of the inner cavity.

[0138] 23. The article of the invention according to paragraph 22, wherein the outer cavity wall includes a central section of the outer cavity wall and a side section of the outer cavity wall surrounding the central section of the outer cavity wall, and the side section of the outer cavity wall includes at least one fold that defines a bellows shape of the outer cavity.

[0139] 24. The article of any one of paragraphs 15 to 23, wherein at least one of the outer chamber and the inner chamber has an external shape including a recess.

[0140] 25. The article of any one of paragraphs 15 to 24, wherein the article is a footwear article comprising a sole structure, and the tilt adjuster forms part of the forefoot portion of the sole structure.

[0141] 26. The article of the invention according to paragraph 25, wherein the plate is located above the tilt adjuster, rests on the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and is positioned such that a downward force acting on the plate in the direction toward the tilt adjuster is transmitted to the inner chamber and the outer chamber and not to the central portion.

[0142] 27. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 25, wherein the plate is located above the tilt adjuster and extends above the inner chamber, the central portion and the outer chamber, and the plate and the tilt adjuster are arranged such that a downward force acting on the plate toward the tilt adjuster does not compress the region of the central portion containing the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0143] 28. An article of manufacture comprising: a tilt adjuster including a body, a variable-volume first chamber extending upward from a first top side of the body, and a variable-volume second chamber extending upward from a second top side of the body, wherein the first top side of the body is one of a top inner side and a top outer side of the body, and the second top side is the other of a top inner side and a top outer side of the body, and the tilt adjuster further comprising: a conveying channel defined in a central portion of the body and extending between the first chamber and the second chamber; and an electrorheological fluid filling the first chamber. The first electrode comprises the transport channel and the second chamber; a first electrode embedded in the central portion and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transport channel; and a second electrode embedded in the central portion at a position opposite to the first electrode and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transport channel, wherein the first chamber includes a flexible first cavity wall extending upward from a first side of the top of the body, the first cavity wall including a first cavity wall central section and a first cavity wall side section surrounding the first cavity wall central section, and the first cavity wall side section including at least one fold defining a bellows shape of the first chamber.

[0144] 29. The article of the invention according to paragraph 28, wherein the second chamber includes a flexible second chamber wall extending upward from a top second side of the body, the second chamber wall including a central section of the second chamber wall and a side section of the second chamber wall surrounding the central section of the second chamber wall, and the side section of the second chamber wall including at least one fold defining a bellows shape of the second chamber.

[0145] 30. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 28 or 29, wherein at least one of the first chamber and the second chamber has an external shape including a recess.

[0146] 31. The article of any one of paragraphs 28 to 30, wherein the article is a footwear article comprising a sole structure, and the tilt adjuster forms part of the forefoot portion of the sole structure.

[0147] 32. The article of the invention according to paragraph 31, wherein the plate is located above the tilt adjuster, rests on the first chamber and the second side chamber, and is positioned such that a downward force acting on the plate in the direction toward the tilt adjuster is transmitted to the first chamber and the second chamber and not to the central portion.

[0148] 33. The article of manufacture according to paragraph 31, wherein the plate is located above the tilt adjuster and extends above the first chamber, the central portion and the second chamber, and the plate and the tilt adjuster are arranged such that a downward force acting on the plate toward the tilt adjuster does not compress the region of the central portion containing the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0149] 34. A method comprising: molding a first component including an inner portion, a central portion, an outer portion, and a top side, wherein the central portion is located between the inner portion and the outer portion, first portions of an inner chamber and an outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion on the top side, a first portion of a transfer channel is defined in the central portion on the top side, and a portion of a first electrode is exposed along the first portion of the transfer channel; molding a second component including an inner portion, a central portion, an outer portion, and a bottom side, wherein the central portion of the second component is located between the inner portion and the outer portion of the second component, and second portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion of the second component. The second portion of the transmission channel is defined in the central portion on the bottom side of the second component, and a portion of the second electrode is exposed along the second portion of the transmission channel; the top side of the first component is coupled to the bottom side of the second component to create a tilt adjuster, wherein the first and second portions of the inner chamber are combined to form the inner chamber, the first and second portions of the outer chamber are combined to form the outer chamber, the first and second portions of the transmission channel are combined to form the transmission channel, and the transmission channel connects the inner chamber and the outer chamber; an internal volume is filled with an electrorheological fluid, wherein the internal volume includes the volumes of the inner chamber, the transmission channel, and the outer chamber; and the internal volume is sealed.

[0150] 35. The method according to paragraph 34, wherein molding the first component includes molding a first layer of the first component, attaching the first electrode to the first layer of the first component, and molding a second layer of the first component onto the first layer of the first component and the first electrode, and molding the second component includes molding a first layer of the second component, attaching the second electrode to the second layer of the second component, and molding a second layer of the second component onto the first layer of the second component and the second electrode, wherein the first layer of the second component includes a flexible inner cavity wall forming the second portion of the inner cavity and a flexible outer cavity wall forming the second portion of the outer cavity.

[0151] 36. The method according to paragraph 34, wherein molding the first component includes molding a first layer of the first component, and then molding the first electrode into the first layer of the first component, and molding the second component includes molding a first layer of the second component, and then molding the second electrode into the first layer of the second component.

[0152] 37. The method according to paragraph 34 or 35, wherein each of the first electrode and the second electrode is a continuous sheet of metal.

[0153] 38. The method according to paragraph 34 or 36, wherein each of the first electrode and the second electrode is a continuous conductive rubber component.

[0154] The foregoing description of embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments of the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and modifications and variations may be made in accordance with the foregoing teachings, or may be obtained from practice of various embodiments. The embodiments discussed herein were chosen and described to explain the principles and nature of various embodiments and their practical application, enabling those skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and to utilize it with various modifications suitable for particular uses that may be contemplated. Any and all combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions of features from the embodiments described herein are within the scope of the invention. In the claims, references to potential or intended wearers or users of the component do not require actual wearing or use of the component or the presence of a wearer or user as part of the claimed invention.

Claims

1. A footwear product comprising: A tilt adjuster includes a main body, a variable-volume outer chamber extending outwardly on the outer side of the main body, and a variable-volume inner chamber extending outwardly on the inner side of the main body, and wherein the tilt adjuster further includes: A transfer channel defined in the central portion of the body and extending between the outer chamber and the inner chamber; An electrorheological fluid fills the outer chamber, the delivery channel, and the inner chamber; A conductive rubber first electrode, embedded in the central portion and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transmission channel; and A conductive rubber second electrode, which is embedded in the central portion at a position opposite to the first electrode and exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the delivery channel. in, The path of the transmission channel extends along a non-linear transmission channel path between the outer chamber and the inner chamber. The first electrode and the second electrode each have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transmission channel path. The concave side of the first electrode is exposed to the electrorheological fluid, and A portion of the second electrode protruding into the concave cavity on the concave side is exposed to the electrorheological fluid.

2. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein... The outer portion of the tilt adjuster corresponding to the outer chamber is configured to expand outward in response to the electrorheological fluid flowing into the outer chamber from the transmission channel, and The outer portion of the tilt adjuster corresponding to the inner chamber is configured to expand outward in response to the electrorheological fluid flowing into the inner chamber from the transmission channel.

3. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein... Both the first and second electrodes cover a portion of the extended transmission channel path, having a length L and an average width W, and The ratio L / W is at least 50.

4. The footwear product according to claim 1, wherein... The outer chamber includes a flexible outer chamber wall extending upward from the top outer side of the body, and The inner chamber includes a flexible inner wall extending upward from the top inner side of the body.

5. The footwear product according to claim 4, wherein... The outer cavity wall includes a central section and side sections surrounding the central section. The outer cavity wall side section includes at least one fold that defines the bellows shape of the outer cavity.

6. The footwear product according to claim 4, wherein The inner cavity wall includes a central section and side sections surrounding the central section. The inner cavity wall side section includes at least one fold that defines the bellows shape of the inner cavity.

7. The footwear product according to claim 6, wherein... The outer cavity wall includes a central section and side sections surrounding the central section. The outer cavity wall side section includes at least one fold that defines the bellows shape of the outer cavity.

8. The footwear product according to claim 7, wherein At least one of the outer chamber and the inner chamber has an external shape including a recess.

9. The footwear article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The footwear products include a sole structure, and The tilt adjuster forms part of the forefoot portion of the sole structure.

10. The footwear article according to claim 9, wherein The footwear also includes a plate located above the tilt adjuster, the plate resting on the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and positioned such that a downward force acting on the plate in the direction toward the tilt adjuster is transmitted to the inner chamber and the outer chamber and not to the central portion.

11. The footwear article according to claim 9, wherein The footwear also includes a plate located above the tilt adjuster and extending above the inner chamber, the central portion, and the outer chamber, and The plate and the tilt adjuster are arranged such that a downward force acting on the plate toward the tilt adjuster does not compress the central portion containing the first electrode and the second electrode.

12. A method of manufacturing a tilt adjuster, comprising: A first component is molded, comprising an inner portion, a central portion, an outer portion, and a top side, wherein the central portion is located between the inner portion and the outer portion, first portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion on the top side, a first portion of a transfer channel is defined in the central portion on the top side, and a portion of a first electrode is exposed along the first portion of the transfer channel; A second component is molded, comprising an inner portion, a central portion, an outer portion, and a bottom side, wherein the central portion of the second component is located between the inner and outer portions of the second component, second portions of the inner and outer chambers are respectively defined in the inner and outer portions of the second component, a second portion of the transfer channel is defined in the central portion on the bottom side of the second component, and a portion of the second electrode is exposed along the second portion of the transfer channel; The top side of the first component is joined to the bottom side of the second component to create a tilt adjuster, wherein the first and second portions of the inner chamber are combined to form the inner chamber, the first and second portions of the outer chamber are combined to form the outer chamber, the first and second portions of the transfer channel are combined to form the transfer channel, and the transfer channel connects the inner chamber and the outer chamber, the path of the transfer channel extends along a non-linear transfer channel path between the outer chamber and the inner chamber, and the first electrode and the second electrode each have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transfer channel path; The internal volume is filled with an electrorheological fluid, wherein the internal volume includes the internal volumes of the inner chamber, the delivery channel and the outer chamber, the concave side of the first electrode is exposed to the electrorheological fluid, and a portion of the second electrode protruding into the concave side of the concave cavity is exposed to the electrorheological fluid. as well as Seal the internal volume.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein Molding the first component includes molding a first layer of the first component, attaching the first electrode to the first layer of the first component, and molding a second layer of the first component onto the first layer of the first component and the first electrode. Molding the second component includes molding a first layer of the second component, attaching the second electrode to the first layer of the second component, and molding a second layer of the second component onto the first layer of the second component and the second electrode, wherein the first layer of the second component includes a flexible inner cavity wall forming the second portion of the inner cavity and a flexible outer cavity wall forming the second portion of the outer cavity.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein Molding the first component includes molding a first layer of the first component, and then molding the first electrode into the first layer of the first component. Molding the second component includes molding a first layer of the second component, and then molding the second electrode into the first layer of the second component.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein each of the first electrode and the second electrode is a continuous conductive rubber component.

16. A footwear product, comprising: A tilt adjuster includes a body, a variable-volume outer chamber extending on the outer side of the body, and a variable-volume inner chamber extending on the inner side of the body, and wherein the tilt adjuster further includes: A transport channel that extends between the outer chamber and the inner chamber; An electrorheological fluid fills the outer chamber, the delivery channel, and the inner chamber; A conductive rubber first electrode, which is exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transmission channel; and A conductive rubber second electrode, positioned opposite the first electrode, is exposed to the electrorheological fluid along the transport channel. The concave side of the first electrode is exposed to the electrorheological fluid, and a portion of the second electrode protruding into the cavity on the concave side is also exposed to the electrorheological fluid.

17. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein, The path of the transmission channel extends along a non-linear transmission channel path between the outer chamber and the inner chamber, and The first electrode and the second electrode each have a shape corresponding to the shape of the transmission channel path.

18. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein Both the first and second electrodes cover a portion of the extended transmission channel path, having a length L and an average width W, and The ratio L / W is at least 50.

19. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein The outer chamber includes a central section of the outer chamber wall and side sections of the outer chamber wall surrounding the central section of the outer chamber wall, and The outer cavity wall side section includes at least one fold that defines the bellows shape of the outer cavity.

20. The footwear article according to claim 19, wherein, The outer chamber has an external shape including a recess.

21. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein The inner chamber includes a central section of the inner chamber wall and a side section of the inner chamber wall surrounding the central section of the inner chamber wall. The inner cavity wall side section includes at least one fold that defines the bellows shape of the inner cavity.

22. The footwear article according to claim 21, wherein, The inner chamber has an external shape including a recess.

23. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein, The footwear also includes a plate located above the tilt adjuster, the plate resting on the outer chamber and the inner chamber, and positioned such that a downward force acting on the plate in the direction of the tilt adjuster is transmitted to the outer chamber and the inner chamber, but not to the central portion of the body extending between the outer chamber and the inner chamber.

24. The footwear article according to claim 16, wherein The footwear also includes a plate located above the tilt adjuster and extending over the inner chamber, the outer chamber, and the central portion of the body, the central portion extending between the outer and inner chambers. The plate and the tilt adjuster are arranged such that a downward force on the plate toward the tilt adjuster does not compress the region containing the central portion of the first and second electrodes.

25. A method for manufacturing an article of article, the method comprising: The molding includes an inner portion and an outer portion and a first component on a top side, wherein the first portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion on the top side, the first portion of the transfer channel is defined between the first portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and a portion of the first electrode is exposed along the first portion of the transfer channel; The molding includes an inner portion and an outer portion and a second component on the bottom side, wherein the second portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion of the second component, the second portion of the transfer channel is defined between the second portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and a portion of the second electrode is exposed along the second portion of the transfer channel; The top of the first component is glued to the bottom of the second component to create a tilt adjuster, wherein: The first and second parts of the inner chamber combine to form the inner chamber. The first and second parts of the outer chamber combine to form the outer chamber. The first and second portions of the transmission channel are combined to form the transmission channel, and the transmission channel connects the inner chamber and the outer chamber. The first electrode and the second electrode both have nonlinear shapes that correspond to the shape of a portion of the transmission channel; An internal volume is filled with an electrorheological fluid, wherein the internal volume includes an inner chamber, a delivery channel, and an outer chamber, wherein the concave side of the first electrode is exposed to the electrorheological fluid, and a portion of the second electrode protruding into the concave cavity on the concave side is exposed to the electrorheological fluid; and Seal the internal volume.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein Molding a first component includes molding a first layer of the first component, attaching a first electrode to the first layer of the first component, and molding a second layer of the first component onto the first layer of the first component and the first electrode. The molding of the second component includes molding a first layer of the second component, attaching a second electrode to the first layer of the second component, and molding a second layer of the second component onto the first layer of the second component and the second electrode, wherein... The second component, first layer, includes a flexible inner cavity wall forming a second portion of the inner cavity and a flexible outer cavity wall forming a second portion of the outer cavity.

27. The method of claim 25, wherein Molding the first component includes molding a first layer of the first component and subsequently molding the first electrode into the first layer of the first component, and Molding the second component includes molding the first layer of the second component and subsequently molding the second electrode into the first layer of the second component.

28. The method according to claim 25, wherein, Each of the first and second electrodes is a continuous conductive rubber sheet.

29. A method for manufacturing an article of article, the method comprising: The molding includes an inner portion and an outer portion and a first component on a top side, wherein the first portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion on the top side, the first portion of the transfer channel is defined between the first portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and a portion of the first electrode is exposed along the first portion of the transfer channel; The molding includes an inner portion and an outer portion and a second component on the bottom side, wherein the second portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber are respectively defined in the inner portion and the outer portion of the second component, the second portion of the transfer channel is defined between the second portions of the inner chamber and the outer chamber, and a portion of the second electrode is exposed along the second portion of the transfer channel; The top of the first component is glued to the bottom of the second component to create a tilt adjuster, wherein: The first and second parts of the inner chamber combine to form the inner chamber. The first and second parts of the outer chamber combine to form the outer chamber. The first and second portions of the transmission channel are combined to form the transmission channel, and the transmission channel connects the inner chamber and the outer chamber. An internal volume is filled with an electrorheological fluid, wherein the internal volume includes an inner chamber, a delivery channel, and an outer chamber, wherein the first and second electrodes each have side edges embedded in a central portion of the body and not exposed to the electrorheological fluid, each side edge including a hole extending through the electrode corresponding to the side edge, and each hole being filled with a solid material forming the central portion; and Sealed internal volume.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein Molding a first component includes molding a first layer of the first component, attaching a first electrode to the first layer of the first component, and molding a second layer of the first component onto the first layer of the first component and the first electrode. The molding of the second component includes molding a first layer of the second component, attaching a second electrode to the first layer of the second component, and molding a second layer of the second component onto the first layer of the second component and the second electrode, wherein... The second component, first layer, includes a flexible inner cavity wall forming a second portion of the inner cavity and a flexible outer cavity wall forming a second portion of the outer cavity.

31. The method of claim 29, wherein Molding the first component includes molding a first layer of the first component and subsequently molding the first electrode into the first layer of the first component, and Molding the second component includes molding the first layer of the second component and subsequently molding the second electrode into the first layer of the second component.

32. The method according to claim 29, wherein, Each of the first and second electrodes is a continuous metal sheet.

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